Anyone routed a USB cable through the windscreen vents? (phone holder query)

[Bossworld]

Just changed phone to an Android (    ) and having previously had a magnetic mount that scratched the heck out of the rear of the phone, I wanted an alternative.

I'm fairly sure I'm going to buy this, and mount it on top of the dash cubby (meaning it can still be opened/used)

https://www.amazon.co.uk/DreamLine-Products-Phone-Holder-Dashboard-Black-Premium/dp/B073T6H9CL/ref=sr_1_19?keywords=non+slip+phone+mount&qid=1554911996&s=gateway&sr=8-19

But trying to figure out the best way to route a USB to USB C cable from the back of the head unit, to where I would want to plug in the phone.  I've bought 1.8m worth of Amazonbasics nylon cable, so not worried about heat affecting it.  I tried dropping the USB connector down past the windscreen vents, but didn't see it come out anywhere.  Is this even possible or is there a better route?

[Call the midlife!]

I've got a 12v socket in the cubby itself, drilled a small hole just big enough for the cable and threaded it down. If you do it at the glove box side you can see it come down and guide it where you want it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[paulj]

From memory, if you whip out the glovebox you will then get pretty good access to the areas behind it, as @Call the midlife! says

[Topdownman]

This thread may be of interest?

https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?topic=63512.0

[StuC]

I have my phone mount next to the a-post. By loosening the fascia end boots I was able to run a power cable up there no problem. Then just pop out under the centre section next to the power socket. Simples.

[Bossworld]

I have my phone mount next to the a-post. By loosening the fascia end boots I was able to run a power cable up there no problem. Then just pop out under the centre section next to the power socket. Simples.

Current mount is a magnetic one on top of the flat part of the dash above the driver's side vent.  Got a cable running under the steering column and hidden fairly neatly. 

I've run dash cams in my car and my mum's MR2, the first time out I had to take a Stanley blade to the plastic by the front catches as I just couldn't sneak the cable in (and obviously the bolts are secured with red loctite or similar).

On mum's car I was a bit more patient and managed to take a cable all around the frame and then around the side of the dashboard (I think as you're describing).

What I'm hoping for with this one, is to run the cable centrally, from behind a single din headunit, up round the back of everything and then through the opening for the vent.

I'll take a look at the other thread with the pics, the main issue is I'm planning on running this solution with the cubby shut.  I did spot another holder that sprung up (and therefore could maybe be hidden in the cubby when not in use), but seems a bit of a faff.

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Or is the group thought to route the cable into the cubby, and leave it in there while not in use (which in fairness, is probably most of the time)?  Guess the cubby would be almost shut even when the cable is coming out of it.

[moredun]

My current and so far the best solution I have found so far is very simple.

For the phone I use a clamshell case that sits anywhere on the dash, no need to stick it down, it just sits there, regardless of how I drive. When not in use you can throw it in the glovebox or leave it on the dash. It has the added benifit of sheilding the phone from the sun 

The USB cable I use is a retractable 3 in 1 Cable,Lightning & Micro USB & Type C Connectors

For power, any USB car adapter for fast charging will do.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Capdase-Dashboard-Driving-Companion-Vibration-black/dp/B07PJWYVHM/ref=sr_1_74?keywords=car+clamshell+mobile+holder&qid=1554983341&s=electronics&sr=1-74

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B071GX873W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[Topdownman]

Not seen the clamcase holder before but looks like a great idea.

A bit like a cheap navpod!

[Bossworld]

My current and so far the best solution I have found so far is very simple.

For the phone I use a clamshell case that sits anywhere on the dash, no need to stick it down, it just sits there, regardless of how I drive. When not in use you can throw it in the glovebox or leave it on the dash. It has the added benifit of sheilding the phone from the sun 

The USB cable I use is a retractable 3 in 1 Cable,Lightning & Micro USB & Type C Connectors

For power, any USB car adapter for fast charging will do.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Capdase-Dashboard-Driving-Companion-Vibration-black/dp/B07PJWYVHM/ref=sr_1_74?keywords=car+clamshell+mobile+holder&qid=1554983341&s=electronics&sr=1-74

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B071GX873W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I did see that type on Amazon, and I like how much easier it would be to position it towards the driver's line of sight, but I was leaning more towards the open ended 'mat' type.

I had a quick look at the cubby last night, and the cable will happily come out the side of the lid with the cubby still shut, so will go down the drilling the side of the cubby route as suggested  :notworthy:

[1979scotte]

Not read this thread but would like to point out the Amazon Basic USB C are very poor at staying in the phone even under my bed.

[Bossworld]

Not read this thread but would like to point out the Amazon Basic USB C are very poor at staying in the phone even under my bed.

Haven't spotted any issues on my Pixel 3 (and I've bought 4 of their cables) but did see similar complaints on some reviews

[BahnStormer]

mine goes from the 12V socket under the centre console, behind the dash plastics and our next to the steering wheel... so I can mount the phone in the RHS airvent out of immediate eyeline and easily in reach (where you're supposed to mount it)...

Not what you were asking about though ... my main reason for posting was to recommend these right-angled USB-C cables - they're really good for helping out with phones/tablets on holders and stands so you don't bend the cable around and damage the charging port/cable...

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07952B1Z5/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[Bossworld]

Sorted 

Drilled a second smaller hole to cable tie the small amount of cable I want to store in there, in place.

[Chilli Girl]

Clever, that!🙂